IIT Madras and ISRO Launch Research Centre for Spacecraft Thermal Management

IIT Madras is partnering with ISRO to create a Centre of Excellence in Fluid and Thermal Sciences. This collaboration aims to enhance research in thermal management for spacecraft and launch vehicles. ISRO has allocated Rs 1.84 Crore as seed funding for this initiative. The MoU was signed on 11th November 2024, marking an important milestone in industry-academia collaboration.

Purpose of the Centre

The Centre will focus on thermal management challenges faced by ISRO. It will serve as a key research hub dedicated to spacecraft and launch vehicle thermal issues. The initiative aims to leverage the expertise of IIT Madras faculty in tackling complex thermal engineering problems.

Funding and Resources

ISRO’s initial funding of Rs 1.84 Crore will support the establishment of the Centre. This funding will cover essential infrastructure and equipment. Additional financial resources will be allocated for consumables, maintenance, and future projects in fluid-thermal sciences.

The Centre will undertake advanced research projects in critical areas. These include spacecraft thermal management, combustion instability in hybrid rockets, and cryo-tank thermodynamics. The research aims to address pressing thermal management issues relevant to India’s space programme.

Historical Context

The collaboration builds on a long-standing relationship between ISRO and IIT Madras. In 1985, they established the ‘ISRO-IIT M Space Technology Cell’ to promote advanced academic research. This new Centre of Excellence continues that legacy by focusing on critical areas of thermal science.

Expected Outcomes

Key outcomes from this collaboration include advancements in thermal management research. The Centre aims to contribute to India’s space capabilities. It will also strengthen self-reliance in space technologies through innovative solutions and research advancements.

Important Facts for Exams:

1. ISRO-IIT M Space Technology Cell – Established in 1985 this collaboration promotes advanced academic research. It aims to support India’s self-reliant space programme through innovative research initiatives.
2. Directorate of Technology Development & Innovation (DTDI): This ISRO division focuses on technology development. It plays a key role in enhancing research capabilities and encouraging innovation within ISRO’s various projects.
3. Centre of Excellence – This facility will focus on fluid and thermal sciences. It aims to solve thermal management challenges for spacecraft and launch vehicles through collaborative research.
4. Combustion Instability – This phenomenon affects rocket performance. Research on combustion instability in hybrid rockets is crucial for enhancing the stability and efficiency of space launch systems.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2024

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs